Vandals attack revamped Sheffield pond

COUNCILLORS have condemned vandals who went on a wrecking spree at a Sheffield pond which has only just been revamped by volunteers and council workers.

Litter bins were pulled out and a recycling bin pushed into the water at Frecheville Pond, in an attack which has been reported to police.

Birley ward councillors say they and the Friends of Frecheville Park and Pond group are ‘deeply saddened’.

Coun Bryan Lodge, Labour councillor for the area and cabinet member for finance, said “It’s such a shame when all this hard work is spoilt by idiots who have no respect for the pond or the local community.

“I really hope that these hooligans can be found and would urge anyone who has any information on who is responsible to report it to the police.

“This can be done through 101 or through any of your local councillors if you feel more comfortable using that route.”

He added: “We can’t let this sort of behaviour ruin local facilities – please, if you know who is responsible, pass it on to the police.”

Fellow Birley Labour councillor Denise Fox said: “I am so disappointed to see the vandalism that occurred over the weekend. The hard work from the local community to improve the area around the pond is done by volunteers.

“The people of Frecheville have been asking for the pond to be cleaned up for a long time and finally we are seeing the benefits. I do hope that this will not be a sign of things to come and that if anyone sees anyone causing any damage that they will report it by ringing 101.”

Yesterday, The Star reported the revamped pond has attracted wildlife and been popular with families, with parents taking children to feed the ducks.

New seats, bins and paths had been provided and debris removed from the pond during the restoration project, which took several months to complete.